Refueling system for supplying fuel to fracturing equipment

ABSTRACT

A refueling system for supplying fuel to at least one piece of fracturing equipment. The refueling system can have a main fuel source and at least one pressurization unit. The pressurization unit can have an optional pump, a motor, a motor fuel source, a supply coupling device and a return coupling device. The refueling system can have sensors in the one or more supply fuel lines and in the one or more return fuel lines for receiving flow rate information and pressure information, wherein the flow rate information and pressure information are compared to preset limits and a message can be transmitted when the flow rate information and pressure information falls below or exceeds the preset limits to adjust rates of operation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The current application is a Continuation of co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/856,518 filed on Sep. 16, 2015, entitled“REFUELING SYSTEM FOR SUPPLYING FUEL TO HYDRAULIC FRACTURING EQUIPMENT”,which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/051,185 filed Sep. 16, 2014, the entirety ofwhich being incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

FIELD

The present embodiments generally relate to operations and processesused in the oil and gas industry. The present embodiments further relateto a fractionation process using an improved method and system forrefueling one or more pieces of equipment.

BACKGROUND

There are needs for a refueling system that can supply fuel to multiplefractionation pump units simultaneously to increase safety in the fieldand save time refueling.

There is a need for reducing the time involved with refueling. There isa need for recapturing unused fuel in order to reduce fuel costs.

The present embodiments meet these needs.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description will be better understood in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings as follows:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram overview of a fractionation operation having arefueling system according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 2A is a side view of a coupling device as a connection between amain fuel source and at least one pressurization unit according to oneor more embodiments.

FIG. 2B is a side perspective view of at least one pressurization unitwith a controller according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a supply coupling device accordingto one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3B is a perspective side view of a return coupling device accordingto one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a refueling system with at least one piece offracturing equipment pumping fluids down a well connected to therefueling system according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of the components of a refueling system as connectedto an onboard motor and a pump containing the at least onepressurization unit as connected to a main fuel source and a supply fuelline according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a controller for a refueling system having aprocessor connected to sensors and a data storage according to one ormore embodiments.

The present embodiments are detailed below with reference to the listedFigures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Before explaining the present system in detail, it is to be understoodthat the system is not limited to the particular embodiments and that itcan be practiced or carried out in various ways.

The present embodiments generally relate to operations and processesused in the oil and gas industry. The present embodiments further relateto a system and method for using an improved method and system forrefueling one or more pieces of equipment.

Hydraulic fracturing as used herein can also be referred to andinterchangeable with the terms fractionation, hydrofracturing,hydrofracking, fracking, fraccing, and frac, which refers to a techniquein which rock is fractured by a pressurized liquid. The process involvesthe high-pressure injection of fracking fluid, which can consistprimarily of water, containing sand and other proppants suspended withthe aid of thickening agents, into a wellbore to create cracks in theformations through which natural gas, petroleum, and brine can flow morefreely.

Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to a refueling system for afractionation operation with multiple pieces of fracturing equipmentand/or multiple fractionation trailers simultaneously without a hotzone, that can include at least one pressurization unit configured toprovide pressurized fluid to a well, the unit can have an optional pump,a motor, and a motor fuel source, a supply coupling device and a returncoupling device, a main fuel source can be configured to provide fuel tothe motor fuel source, a supply fuel line configured to provide fueltransport from the main fuel source to the motor fuel source, and areturn fuel line can be configured to provide fuel transport from the atleast one pressurization unit to the main fuel source.

In embodiments, the fracturing equipment can be hydraulic fracturingequipment.

While persons having ordinary skill in the art are well aware of usingpumps for fluid transfer, certain applications may lend themselves togravity feeding fluids in lieu of pumping. As such, it will be readilyapparent that a pump is optional for use only when necessary.

An oil or gas well can includes a wellbore extending into a subterraneanformation at some depth below a surface (e.g., Earth's surface), and canbe usually lined with a tubular, such as casing, to add strength to thewell. Many commercially viable hydrocarbon sources are found in “tight”reservoirs, which mean the target hydrocarbon product cannot be easilyextracted. The surrounding formation (e.g., shale) to these reservoirstypically has low permeability, and it is uneconomical to produce thehydrocarbons (i.e., gas, oil) in commercial quantities from thisformation without the use of drilling accompanied with fractionationoperations.

Fractionation is common in the industry and growing in popularity andgeneral acceptance, and can include the use of a plug set in thewellbore below or beyond the respective target zone, followed by pumpingor injecting high pressure fracking fluid into the zone. Thefractionation operation results in fractures or “cracks” in theformation that allow hydrocarbons to be more readily extracted andproduced by an operator, and can be repeated as desired or necessaryuntil all target zones are fractured.

In a conventional fracturing operation, “slurry” of fluids and additivescan be injected into a hydrocarbon bearing rock formation at a wellboreto propagate fracturing. The fluids, which can be mixed with chemicals,sand, acid, can be pressurized and transported at a high rate via one ormore high pressure pumps, typically driven by diesel fueled primemovers/motors. The majority of the fluids injected will flow backthrough the wellbore and be recovered, while the sand will remain in thenewly created fracture, thus “propping” it open.

The term “automatically controlled” as used herein can refer tooperation of equipment of the refueling system using a controller, whichcan be made up of a processor and a data storage, or by another remotedevice connected to the equipment of the refueling system, such as by anetwork. The remote device can be a computer, a laptop, a cellularphone, a smart phone, a tablet computer, or similar device.

The term “fractionation operation” as used herein can refer tofractionation of a downhole well that has already been drilled.

The term “fuel” as used herein can refer to the fuel that drives themotors of the fracturing equipment or the fractionation trailers.

The term “land based fractionation operation” as used herein can referto a fractionation operation which occurs on land, which can be around aland based well.

The term “water based fractionation operation” as used herein can referto a fractionation operation which occurs in water, which can be wateraround a marine based well.

The term “pump” as used herein can refer to a fuel pump with thecapacity to flow fuel at a rate from 150 gallons per minute to 225gallons per minute from 28 psi to 40 psi. In embodiments, the pump canbe removed and the fuel from the supply coupling device can be gravityfed to the onboard motor.

The term “manually controlled” as used herein can refer to valves orequipment which can be operated by pushing a button or using a wrench toturn, or flipping a switch.

The term “motor” as used herein can refer to an engine such as acombustion engine mounted on the fracturing equipment or the trailerhaving at least one pressurization unit, at least one piece offracturing equipment or the trailer providing fuel to allow multiplepieces of fracturing equipment and multiple trailers and/or trucks tohydraulically fractionate a formation through an existing wellbore.

The term “valve element” as used herein can refer to a check valve, aspring loaded check valve, a ball valve, a two way valve, a shuttlevalve, a butterfly valve, a gate valve, a three way valve, or any valveusable in the industry that can be applied in application of the system.In embodiments, the valve element can be optional with the system.

A benefit of the system can be to eliminate hot refueling by operators,such as truck operators, allowing operators to extend uninterrupted andextended pump times for fractionation operations.

Explosions and death often happen with hot refueling. These embodimentscan save lives by eliminating the need for personnel to be in the hotzone for hot refueling activities.

The embodiments can have the benefit of eliminating human error thatcauses fires during hot refueling by eliminating the need for hotrefueling.

In traditional hot refueling, in the hot zone, one person can have afire extinguisher with the fuel nozzle, a second person can be in thehot zone with line of sight to the person refueling with the fireextinguisher, and then a third person can be back on the truck with hisfinger on the emergency stop button.

The present embodiments can save the lives of people, by no longerrequiring them to be in the field in this “hot zone” for hot refueling.

Herein disclosed are novel apparatuses, systems, and methods thatpertain to a refueling system for a fractionation operation, details ofwhich are described herein.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail withreference to the accompanying Figures. In the following discussion andin the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” can be used in anopen-ended fashion, such as to mean, for example, “including, but notlimited to”. While the disclosure can be described with reference to therelevant apparatuses, systems, and methods, it should be understood thatthe disclosure cannot be limited to the specific embodiments shown ordescribed. Rather, one skilled in the art will appreciate that a varietyof configurations can be implemented in accordance with embodimentsherein.

Although not necessary, like elements in the various figures can bedenoted by like reference numerals for consistency and ease ofunderstanding. Numerous specific details are set forth in order toprovide a more thorough understanding of the disclosure; however, it canbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodimentsdisclosed herein can be practiced without these specific details. Inother instances, well-known features have not been described in detailto avoid unnecessarily complicating the description. Directional terms,such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,”, are usedfor convenience and to refer to general direction and/or orientation,and are only intended for illustrative purposes only, and not to limitthe disclosure.

Connection(s), couplings, or other forms of contact between parts,components, and so forth can include conventional items, such aslubricant, additional sealing materials, such as a gasket betweenflanges, PTFE between threads, and the like. Embodiments of thedisclosure provide for one or more components to be new, used, and/orretrofitted to existing machines and systems.

Turning to the Figures, FIG. 1 is a block diagram overview of afractionation operation having a refueling system according to one ormore embodiments.

Although FIG. 1 shows a land-based operation, it is within the scope ofthe disclosure that embodiments herein can be just as applicable to asubsea fractionation operation.

FIG. 1 shows an operation 200, as a fractionation operation.

The refueling system useable with the operation 200 can be identifiedwith reference to Box A.

Box A can be connected to at least one well 216 a and 216 b throughpiping.

In this embodiment, a plurality of pressurization units 202 a-202 j areshown.

In embodiments, the pressurization unit, for example, can be a frac pumptruck or a frac pump trailer.

The plurality of pressurization units 202 a-202 j can each includevarious components or subcomponents, such as an optional pump, a motor,and a fuel tank. In embodiments, the fuel tank can be a motor fuel tank.

A main fuel source 220 can provide fuel to at least one pressurizationunit or to a plurality of pressurization unit(s) 202 a-202 jsimultaneously.

In embodiments, the fuel can be or include but is not limited togasoline, kerosene, diesel, and natural gas. The fuel can be anysuitable fuel. Moreover, the fuel need not be 100 percent in perfectcomposition, as impurities, compounds, or other components can bepresent.

The refueling system can include one or more supply fuel lines, supplyfuel lines 208 a, 208 b, 208 c, and 208 d are shown.

Each supply fuel line 208 a-208 d can be configured to provide fuel fromthe main fuel source 220 to the at least one pressurization unit 202a-202 j.

The refueling system can include one or more return fuel lines. Two ofthe return fuel lines 222 a and 222 b can be configured to provide fueltransport return from the at least one pressurization unit 202 a-202 jto the main fuel source 220.

Box B shows ancillary equipment supporting the fracturing equipment. Theancillary equipment can be sand, chemical blenders, equipment for thecrosslinking of gels, and combinations thereof.

FIG. 2A shows a component connection view of a refueling system 301having a fuel tank 328 with fuel 326 connected to at least onepressurization unit 302 according to one or more embodiments.

The refueling system 301 can be constructed of a number ofinterconnected and/or interoperable components, subcomponents, and soforth. The refueling system 301 can include similar components andmaterials of construction as described for other embodiments herein,such that there can be similarity or exactness between them, however,the systems need not be identical.

The at least one pressurization unit 302 can include other components,that receive fuel, such as a pump 338, a motor (motor-generator) orprime mover 337 fluidly connected to the pump, a fuel level sensor (notshown), and a filter 332 or filtration system.

The at least one pressurization unit 302 can be disposed on or otherwiseassociated with (including operatively associatively) a frame 307 orsimilar support structure, the frame can be a skid, a trailer, or atruck. In embodiments, the at least one pressurization unit and or framecan be supported on land based, water based, or water bound structures.

The motor 337 can be or otherwise include a combustion (e.g., internalcombustion) engine. The motor can burn fuel 326 to produce a mechanicalmotion, such as rotation. In this manner, the motor can be coupled (suchas mechanically) to the pump 338 in such a way as to transmit mechanicalrotation and drive the pump 338. Although pressurization unit 302 isdiscussed herein with reference to a motor, one of skill in the artwould appreciate that there can be other devices suitable to provideenergy in a manner that drives the pump 338.

A supply coupling device 314 can be connected to the filter 332 and tothe fuel tank 328.

In embodiments, the supply coupling device 314 can be connected by wayof threaded connection to the filter 332 or filter system. The supplycoupling device 314 can be connected to other components between thefuel tank 328 and the motor 337.

The supply coupling device 314 can be configured for manual control,automatic control, or combinations thereof. In this respect, the supplycoupling device 314 can be configured with various flowthroughpositions, such as an open position, a closed position, or a controlledposition somewhere in between the open position and the closed position.In the digital control sense, this supply coupling device, can be avalve, and can have an “on” or an “off” position.

The fuel tank 328 can be configured in a manner so that the fuel 326 canbe provided to the motor 337, such a through flow channel, piping, orsimilar tubing.

A main fuel source 320 can be configured in a manner so that the fuel326 can be provided to the fuel tank 328, such as through one or moresupply fuel lines 308 a.

Another supply fuel line 308 b is shown and can flow from the main fuelsource 320 to provide fuel transport from the main fuel source 320 to atleast one piece of fracturing equipment.

A return fuel line 322 a can be configured to provide fuel transportfrom the at least one pressurization unit 302 to the main fuel source320 via a return inlet 334.

A manifold 324 can be connected to the main fuel source to split anddivide the fuel into one or more supply fuel lines 308 a and 308 b. Inembodiments, there can be a manifold for the return fuel lines 322 a and322 b.

A pressurization unit fuel inlet 330 is also depicted for flowing fuelfrom the supply coupling device 314 to the filter 332.

FIG. 2B is a side perspective view of at least one pressurization unitwith a controller according to one or more embodiments.

The at least one pressurization unit 302 is shown with a controller 579.

The controller 579 can include at least one processor connected tosensors in at least one supply fuel line and in at least one return fuelline. The sensors can detect flow rate information and pressuresinformation and transmit the information to the processor.

The processor can compare the information to preset limits, and can thentransmit a message when the flow rate information and pressureinformation falls below or exceeds the preset limits to adjust rates ofoperation.

FIG. 3A is a cross sectional view of a supply coupling device 314according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 3B is a perspective side viewof a return coupling device 315 according to one or more embodiments.

The supply coupling device 314 can include a valve element 342 that canconnect to the one or more supply fuel lines 308. In embodiments, thevalve element 342 can be a valve with a spherical disc, a ball valve, acheck valve, or another configuration or element suitable to controlflow therethrough. The valve element 342 can have a hole, opening orport, through the middle so that when the valve element is “inline”,flow will occur in the manner desired.

When the valve element 342 is in the closed position, the hole can bepositioned in a manner (e.g., perpendicular) so that flow can beblocked.

A handle 317 or lever can also be in coordinated or correspondingposition with the valve element, thus providing an indication of theposition of the valve element.

The supply coupling device 314 can be made of, or include componentsmade of materials indicated herein, including metal, such as steel andstainless steel, plastic, ceramic, and so forth.

In an embodiment, the valve element 342 can be a three-way ball valvethat can include “L” or “T”-shaped hole therethrough, as would beapparent to one of skill in the art. The shape of the valve element candictate the direction of flow depending on the position of the valveelement.

Each coupling device, the supply coupling device 314 or the returncoupling device 315 can include connection points 344 a and 344 b and ahousing or body 346, along with the handle 317 and the valve element342.

The connection points 344 a and 344 b can include threaded, tolerancefit, or other suitable features for connecting to hoses and otherfittings.

A first quick-disconnect fitting 352 is also shown and described ingreater detail in FIG. 5.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of at least one piece of fracturing equipmentpumping fluids down a well connected to the refueling system accordingto one or more embodiments.

A well 216 is shown into which fracturing equipment, shown here asmultiple frac trailers 335 a, 335 b, and 335 c are pumping fractionationfluid 339 a, 339 b, and 339 c.

The at least one piece of fracturing equipment can be connected to atleast one fuel pressure regulator 555 a, 555 b, and 555 c to receivefuel for refueling the at least one piece of fracturing equipment. Inembodiments, the refueling of a plurality of fracturing equipment can bedone simultaneously.

The at least one fuel pressure regulator can communicate between the oneor more supply fuel lines 308 and the supply coupling device forreducing fuel pressure coming from the one or more supply fuel lines308.

The one or more supply fuel lines 308 can flow fuel from the main fuelsource 320 to the one or more return fuel lines 322.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a refueling system with components of therefueling system connected to an onboard motor and an optional pumpcontaining at least one pressurization unit further connected to a mainfuel source using a supply fuel line for each piece of fracturingequipment according to one or more embodiments.

The refueling system 301 can include the main fuel source 320, which canbe fluidly connected to the at least one piece of fracturing equipment,wherein the at least one piece of fracturing equipment can providedownhole fluids to a well for fractionation of the well via the at leastone fuel pressure regulators 555 a-555 c, which can be connected to theone or more supply fuel lines 308.

The at least one pressurization unit 302 a can have the fuel tank 328containing the fuel 326, the optional valve element 342 connected to thefuel tank 328, and the supply coupling device 314 connected to the valveelement 342.

The supply coupling device 314 can receive the fuel 326 from the fueltank 328 and the fuel 326 from the one or more supply fuel lines 308connected to the main fuel source 320 and the refueling system canprovide a switchable fuel supply, with an ability to close off fuel fromone tank and use fuel from the other tank.

The at least one pressurization unit 302 a can include the pump 338,which can be fluidly connected to the supply coupling device 314, forreceiving fuel from the supply coupling device 314 and for providingfuel 326 on an onboard motor 309.

In embodiments, the supply coupling device can be connected to the valveelement, for receiving the fuel from the fuel tank or the fuel from oneor more supply fuel lines from the main fuel source.

The at least one pressurization unit 302 a can include the returncoupling device 315 for receiving the fuel from the onboard motor 309and transferring the fuel through a first return fuel line 322 a to themain fuel source 320. Excess fuel can transfer through a second returnfuel line 322 b to the fuel tank 328.

The at least one fuel pressure regulator 555 a and 555 b can be incommunication between the one or more supply fuel lines 308 and thesupply coupling device 314 for reducing fuel pressure coming from theone or more supply fuel lines 308. In embodiments, pressure regulator555 c can communicate with an additional fuel pressure regulator 555 b.Each fuel pressure regulator can communicate to a separatepressurization unit.

In embodiments, the supply coupling device 314 can have a first quickdisconnect 410 made up of a first quick-disconnect fitting 352 mating toa second quick-disconnect fitting 354. The first quick disconnect 410can be for accelerated set up and take down of the refueling unit.

In embodiments, the connection points can include or be fitted with thefirst quick-disconnect fitting 352. The one or more supply fuel lines308 can include a feed end configured with the second quick-disconnect354 suitable for mating to the first quick disconnect fitting 352.

The fuel 326 can be combustible fuel, such as gasoline, kerosene,diesel, natural gas, blends, and the like.

It should be noted that one or more return fuel lines 322 a and 322 bcan engage the return coupling device 315 and can enable transfer of thefuel to the fuel tank 328 when a system failure prevents the main fuelsource 320 from supplying fuel to the supply coupling device. Inembodiments, the transfer of the fluid can be done in a first portionand a second portion, which can be done simultaneously.

In embodiments, additional return fuel lines 322 c can be used.

The refueling system can have a second quick disconnect 411 made up ofan initial quick-disconnect fitting 355 mating to a secondaryquick-disconnect fitting 356 for accelerated set up and take down of therefueling unit.

The refueling system can have a manifold 324 connected between the oneor more supply fuel lines 308 and the main fuel source 320 for enablingadditional supply lines to connect, which can provide multiple supplyfuel lines enabling a plurality of fractionation trucks, such as eight,per supply fuel line to be refueled per fuel supply line.

The refueling system can have a main fuel source pump 321 connected tothe main fuel source 320 for pumping the fuel 326 from the main fuelsource through the filter 332 to the manifold 324.

A heat exchanger 575 can be mounted to the main fuel source 320 forreceiving fuel from the main fuel source and continuously regulating thetemperature of the fuel to an optimal operating temperature for theonboard motor 309.

It should be noted that the valve element 342 can stop fuel flow fromthe fuel tank 328 when the main fuel source supplies fuel to the supplycoupling device and can automatically allow flow of fuel from the fueltank 328 to the pump 338 when a refueling system failure prevents themain fuel source 320 from supplying fuel to the supply coupling device314, which can be done automatically.

In embodiments, the valve element 342 can be a check valve, a springloaded check valve, a three way valve, or any suitable valve known inthe industry.

In embodiments, additional pressurization units 302 b, 302 c and 302 dcan be used. In embodiments the additional pressurization units can bereferred to as a plurality of pressurization units.

In embodiments, the fuel tank 328 can be fixedly connected or otherwisecoupled to the at least one pressurization unit 302 a. In embodiments,the at least one pressurization unit 302 a can include a plurality offuel tanks, such as for redundancy and backup purposes.

The fuel tank 328 can be configured to supply fuel to the motor andselectively receive or supply fuel to a second fuel tank on a secondunit, such as through a fuel pump.

In embodiments, the at least one pressurization unit 302 a can includeswitches, buttons, keyboards, interactive displays, levers, dials,remote control devices, voice activated controls, electronic controls,displays, operator input devices, processors, memory, and/or electronic,electrical communicative and/or digital input and output ports into onedevice or any other input device that a person skilled in the art wouldunderstand would be functional in the disclosed embodiments in thefurtherance of the operation of the at least one pressurization unit 302a.

In embodiments, the filter can be configured to remove particulates inthe fuel lines, water, and water based contaminants in the fuel. Inembodiments the removal of particulates can include particulates thathave diameters from 3 microns to 30 microns and can remove at least 80percent water and water based contaminants in the fuel.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a controller for a refueling system having aprocessor connected to sensors and to data storage according to one ormore embodiments.

The controller 579 can include one or more supply sensors 485 and one ormore return sensors 487

The one or more supply sensors can be in the one or more supply fuellines and the one or more return sensors can be in the one or morereturn fuel lines.

A processor 580, such as a computer, can communicate with the sensorsand can receive data from the sensors.

The processor 580 can be in communication with a data storage 581,wherein the data storage can contain various computer instructions.Computer instructions in the data storage can instruct the processor toperform and complete various tasks.

The term “data storage” refers to a non-transitory computer readablemedium, such as a hard disk drive, solid state drive, flash drive, tapedrive, and the like. The term “non-transitory computer readable medium”excludes any transitory signals but includes any non-transitory datastorage circuitry, e.g., buffers, cache, and queues, within transceiversof transitory signals.

The data storage 581 can contain computer instructions 582, which caninstruct the processor to receive flow rate information and pressureinformation from each of the supply sensors and return sensors.

The data storage 581 can contain preset pressure and temperature limits583. In embodiments, the preset pressure and temperature limits can befor the fuel.

The data storage 581 can contain computer instructions 584, which caninstruct the processor to compare the flow rate information and pressureinformation from the supply sensors and return sensors to presetpressure and temperature limits.

The data storage 581 can contain computer instructions 586, which caninstruct the processor to transmit a message when the flow rateinformation and pressure information falls below or exceeds presetpressure and temperature limits in the data storage enabling an operatorto adjust rates of operation of one or more pressurization units.

In embodiments, the at least one pressurization unit on the at least onepiece of fracturing equipment or trailer can each include a controller,thus providing structures or other subcomponents suitable for mountingelectronic controls for controlling the pressurization unit. Thus, allcomponents and parts of the pressurization unit can be mounted withsensors and other controller circuitry, which can be operably connectedwith the controller. The controller can include a cover and suchaccessories as mounting hardware, brackets, locks, and conduit fittings.The controller can be mounted on the pressurization unit.

The at least one pressurization unit can include other attachments thanshown and described that can also be fixedly attached to the frame, suchas a fan (not shown), a heat exchanger, and/or batteries (not shown).

The controller can include a processor and a memory component. Theprocessor can be a microprocessor or other processors as known in theart. In some embodiments the processor can be made up of multipleprocessors. The processor can execute instructions for generating a fueltransfer signal and controlling fuel transfer between the fuel tanks.Such instructions can be read into or incorporated into a computerreadable medium, such as the memory component or provided external toprocessor. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry can be usedin place of or in combination with software instructions to implement afuel transfer method. Thus, embodiments are not limited to any specificcombination of hardware circuitry and software.

In embodiments, the refueling system for supplying fuel to at least onepiece of fracturing equipment can include a main fuel source fluidlyconnected to the at least one piece of fracturing equipment forproviding downhole fluids to a well for fractionation of the well and atleast one pressurization unit fluidly connected to the main fuel source.The at least one pressurization unit can include a supply couplingdevice connected to an onboard motor, the supply coupling device forreceiving the fuel from one or more supply fuel lines from the main fuelsource and a return coupling device for receiving the fuel from theonboard motor and transferring the fuel through one or more return fuellines to the main fuel source. In embodiments, the fuel from the supplycoupling device can be gravity fed to the onboard motor.

While embodiments of the disclosure have been shown and described,modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the spirit and teachings of the disclosure. Theembodiments described herein are exemplary only, and are not intended tobe limiting. Many variations and modifications to the disclosurepresented herein are possible and are within the scope of thedisclosure. Where numerical ranges or limitations are expressly stated,such express ranges or limitations should be understood to includeiterative ranges or limitations of like magnitude falling within theexpressly stated ranges or limitations. The use of the term “optionally”with respect to any element of a claim is intended to mean that thesubject element is required, or alternatively, is not required. Bothalternatives are intended to be with the scope of any claim. Use ofbroader terms such as comprises, includes, having, should be understoodto provide support for narrower terms such as consisting of, consistingessentially of, comprises substantially of, and the like.

Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the descriptionset out above but is only limited by the claims which follow, that scopeincluding all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each andevery claim is incorporated into the specification as an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. Thus, the claims are a further description andare an addition the preferred embodiments of the disclosure. Theinclusion or discussion of a reference is not an admission that it isprior art to the present disclosure, especially any reference that mayhave a publication date after the priority date of this application. Thedisclosures of all patents, patent applications, and publications citedherein are hereby incorporated by reference, to the extent they providebackground knowledge; or exemplary, procedural or other detailssupplementary to those set forth herein.

Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not tobe interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis of the claims and as arepresentative basis for teaching persons having ordinary skill in theart to variously employ the present invention.

While these embodiments have been described with emphasis on theembodiments, it should be understood that within the scope of theappended claims, the embodiments might be practiced other than asspecifically described herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A refueling system for supplying fuel to at leastone piece of fracturing equipment, the refueling system comprising: a) amain fuel source fluidly connected to the at least one piece offracturing equipment for providing downhole fluids to a well forfractionation of the well; and b) at least one pressurization unitfluidly connected to the main fuel source, the at least onepressurization unit comprising: i. a fuel tank containing fuel; ii. apump unit comprising a pump, and a motor; iii. a supply coupling devicecomprising a valve element, the supply coupling device being connectedin fluid communication to the fuel tank and to the main fuel source, andbeing configured to receive fuel from the fuel tank or fuel from themain fuel source; iv. a return coupling device for receiving the fuelfrom the motor and transferring the fuel through one or more return fuellines to the main fuel source; and v. at least one fuel pressureregulator in communication with the supply coupling device, andconfigured to reduce fuel pressure; and wherein the pump unit operatesin a manner whereby a high pressure frac slurry is injected into thewell.
 2. The refueling system of claim 1, further comprising a fuel pumpfluidly connected to the supply coupling device, and configured toprovide fuel from the supply coupling device to the motor.
 3. Therefueling system of claim 2, wherein the valve element is configured tostop fuel flow from the fuel tank when the main fuel source supplies thefuel to the supply coupling device, and is configured to allow the fuelflow from the fuel tank to the motor when a system failure prevents themain fuel source from supplying the fuel to the supply coupling device.4. The refueling system of claim 1, comprising a first quick disconnecthaving a first quick-disconnect fitting mating to a secondquick-disconnect fitting for accelerated set up and take down of arefueling unit.
 5. The refueling system of claim 4, comprising a secondquick-disconnect having an initial quick-disconnect fitting mating to asecondary quick-disconnect fitting for accelerated set up and take downof the refueling unit.
 6. The refueling system of claim 1, comprising amanifold connected between one or more supply fuel lines and the mainfuel source for connecting to multiple supply fuel lines enabling the atleast one piece of fracturing equipment per the one or more supply fuellines to be refueled per line.
 7. The refueling system of claim 6,further comprising a main fuel source pump connected to the main fuelsource for pumping the fuel from the main fuel source through a filterto the manifold.
 8. The refueling system of claim 1, comprising a heatexchanger coupled with the main fuel source, and configured to receivefuel from the main fuel source and regulate fuel temperature at anoptimal operating temperature for the motor.
 9. The refueling system ofclaim 1, comprising a controller connected to sensors in the one or moresupply fuel lines and in the one or more return fuel lines for receivingflow rate information and pressure information, wherein the flow rateinformation and pressure information is compared to preset limits and amessage is transmitted when the flow rate information and pressureinformation falls below or exceeds the preset limits to adjust rates ofoperation.
 10. The refueling system of claim 7, wherein the filter isconfigured to remove particulates, water and water based contaminatesflowing through the filter.
 11. The refueling system of claim 9, whereinthe controller comprises: a) at least one supply sensor in the one ormore supply fuel lines; b) at least one return sensor in the one or morereturn fuel lines; c) a processor configured to receive data from the atleast one sensor, the at least one return sensor or from both the atleast one sensor and the at least return sensor; d) a data storage incommunication with the processor; e) computer instructions in the datastorage to instruct the processor to receive the flow rate informationand pressure information from the at least one supply sensor, the atleast one return sensor, or from both the at least one supply sensor andthe at least one return sensor; f) preset pressure limits for the fuelflow and preset temperature limits for the fuel in the data storage aspreset pressure and preset temperature limits; g) computer instructionsin the data storage to instruct the processor to compare the flow rateinformation and pressure information from the at least one supplysensor, the at least one return sensor, or from both the at least onesupply sensor and the at least one return sensor to the preset pressureand preset temperature limits; and h) computer instructions in the datastorage to instruct the processor to transmit the message when the flowrate information and pressure information falls below or exceeds thepreset pressure and preset temperature limits in the data storageenabling an operator to adjust the rates of the operation of the atleast one pressurization unit.
 12. A refueling system for supplying fuelto at least one piece of fracturing equipment, the refueling systemcomprising: a) a main fuel source fluidly connected to the at least onepiece of fracturing equipment; and b) at least one pressurization unitfluidly connected to the main fuel source, the at least onepressurization unit comprising: i. a supply coupling device connected toan onboard motor, the supply coupling device for receiving the fuel fromone or more supply fuel lines from the main fuel source; and ii. areturn coupling device for receiving the fuel from the onboard motor andtransferring the fuel through one or more return fuel lines to the mainfuel source; and wherein the at least one piece of fracturing equipmentoperates in a manner whereby a high pressure frac slurry is injectedinto a well.
 13. The refueling system of claim 12, further comprising aplurality of pressurization units, wherein each additional unit furthercomprising a respective pump and engine, wherein each of the pluralityof pressurization units being disposed on one of a skid, a trailer, anda truck, and wherein the supply coupling device is operable to allowfuel flow from the main fuel source to the motor, and at the same timeprevent fuel flow from the motor fuel source to the motor.
 14. A fuelingsystem for a frac operation, the system comprising: a first fuel supplyline for at least one pressurization unit, the unit configured toprovide pressurized fluid to a well, and further comprising a pump, amotor, and a motor fuel source; a supply coupling device connected tothe first fuel supply line; a second fuel supply line connected betweenthe coupling device and a main fuel source, wherein the main fuel sourceis configured to provide fuel to the at least one pressurization unit; athird fuel line connected between the motor fuel source and the couplingdevice; and a return fuel line configured to provide fuel transport fromthe at least one pressurization unit to the main fuel source; andwherein the motor operates to drive the pump in a manner whereby a highpressure frac slurry is injected into the well.
 15. The fueling systemof claim 14, the system comprising a plurality of pressurization units,each unit further comprising a respective pump and engine, each of theplurality of pressurization units being disposed on one of a skid, atrailer, and a truck.
 16. The fueling system of claim 15, whereincoupling device is operable to allow fuel flow from the main fuel sourceto the motor, and at the same time prevent fuel flow from the motor fuelsource to the motor.
 17. The fueling system of claim 16, wherein fuelflow occurs between the main fuel source and the pressurization unit ata first predetermined pressure range, and wherein fuel flow occursbetween the motor fuel source and the motor at a second predeterminedpressure range.